Pepe Nero Is a Creative Twist on Farmhouse Ales

Published: Tuesday, October 1, 2013 at 3:19 p.m.

Last Modified: Tuesday, October 1, 2013 at 3:19 p.m.

Chicago's Goose Island Beer Co. raises a glass to the spirit of Belgian brewing with a creative twist on farmhouse ales. Pepe Nero is a spicy, peppery homage to the saison style, a rustic ale given to tart, fruity flavors and a dry finish.

As the name implies, Pepe Nero is a dark saison, a style seldom seen in the states. Goose Island's version ramps up the spice with black peppercorns and rye malt, delivering a stellar beer with a light body and abundant carbonation.

A bit of fruit cuts through the spice, along with notes of smoky cedar and leather. The beer is minimally hopped, fairly dry and exceptionally balanced. At 6.4 percent alcohol by volume, Pepe Nero would partner well with a burger or roast beef sandwich.

Eric Pera can be reached at 802-7528.

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